Matthew 27:20

But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.

But {G1161} the chief priests {G749} and {G2532} elders {G4245} persuaded {G3982} the multitude {G3793} that {G2443} they should ask {G154} Barabbas {G912}, and {G1161} destroy {G622} Jesus {G2424}.

But the head cohanim persuaded the crowd to ask for Bar-Abba's release and to have Yeshua executed on the stake.

But the chief priests and elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus put to death.

Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the multitudes that they should ask for Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.

Commentary

Context

Matthew 27:20 occurs at a pivotal moment during the trial of Jesus before Pontius Pilate. Following Jesus' arrest and condemnation by the Jewish religious leaders (Matthew 26:57), He was handed over to the Roman governor. It was a Passover custom for the Roman governor to release one prisoner to the crowd, a gesture likely intended to appease the Jewish populace during their significant feast. Pilate, finding no fault in Jesus, presented two options to the multitude: Jesus, or Barabbas, a notorious prisoner described as a robber (John 18:40) and an insurrectionist (Mark 15:7). This verse reveals the calculated intervention of the chief priests and elders to sway the crowd's decision.

Key Themes

  • Manipulation and Deception: The verse highlights the deliberate efforts of the chief priests and elders to manipulate public opinion. They actively "persuaded" the crowd, demonstrating their continued opposition to Jesus and their determination to see Him eliminated, even if it meant releasing a known criminal.
  • Mob Mentality and Influence: This passage vividly illustrates the power of a crowd to be swayed by influential figures. The multitude, initially perhaps curious or divided, quickly succumbed to the persuasion of their religious leaders, choosing Barabbas over Jesus. This shows the danger of uncritical acceptance of popular sentiment.
  • Rejection of the Messiah: At its core, this verse signifies the profound rejection of Jesus as the Messiah by a significant segment of the Jewish people, incited by their leaders. They chose a symbol of worldly rebellion and violence (Barabbas) over the Prince of Peace, fulfilling prophetic foretellings of His suffering and rejection (Isaiah 53:3).
  • Injustice and Innocence Condemned: The choice to release Barabbas and condemn Jesus is a stark act of injustice. Jesus, who was innocent of any crime, was traded for a guilty man, setting the stage for His unjust crucifixion.

Linguistic Insights

The key Greek word for "persuaded" is epeisan (ἔπεισαν), which comes from the root peitho (πείθω). This word implies not just a suggestion, but an active, compelling influence, often through argument or inducement. It suggests a deliberate and successful effort by the chief priests and elders to bend the will of the crowd to their own nefarious purpose, ensuring that the cry for Barabbas would dominate the proceedings before Pilate.

Practical Application

Matthew 27:20 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today:

  • Beware of Manipulation: We must be discerning and critical thinkers, not easily swayed by popular opinion, especially when it contradicts truth or justice. This applies to religious, political, and social spheres.
  • Stand for Truth: The chief priests and elders, despite their religious authority, led people astray. This underscores the importance of individuals seeking truth and righteousness, even when it means standing against the crowd or popular leaders.
  • The Ongoing Choice: Just as the crowd faced a choice between Barabbas and Jesus, every person faces a similar choice: to accept Christ's innocent sacrifice and Lordship, or to reject Him in favor of worldly pursuits or self-will. The verse reminds us of the profound implications of that choice.
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Cross-References

  • Acts 3:14 (4 votes)

    But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;

  • Acts 3:15 (4 votes)

    And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.

  • John 19:15 (3 votes)

    But they cried out, Away with [him], away with [him], crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar.

  • John 19:16 (3 votes)

    ¶ Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led [him] away.

  • John 18:40 (3 votes)

    Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.

  • Mark 15:11 (3 votes)

    But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.

  • Luke 23:18 (2 votes)

    And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this [man], and release unto us Barabbas: